The Médoc has vineyards as far as the eye can see. Not only are there some 60 classified vineyards with global reputations there are also untamed and preserved natural areas, landscapes combining beaches and pine forests, dunes and freshwater lakes and more.

Médoc also has lighthouses, islands, historic buildings that bear witness to a rich heritage, family walks, children's laughter, water fights and games of hide-and-seek in the woods, romantic evenings and shared moments in a region known for the warmth of its people. In short, if you visit the Médoc you will leave a piece of your heart behind, and long for the next opportunity to visit. Here are the 10 must-see attractions of the Médoc to help you plan your itinerary.

  • 1

    The Médoc wine route

    Learn the difference between crus artisans and crus bourgeois

    The Médoc wine route
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    Médoc is filled with wine routes that offering samplings of its renowned wines, such as Château Margaux, Saint-Estèphe, Pauillac to name a few. These domain names that roll off wine experts' tongues and inevitably evoke the gentle sound of a popping cork and a fine drink that is being poured and already tickling the taste buds.

    Here, red wine is king. Only a few estates get involved in producing white wines, but you'll be surprised to discover such a wide range of flavours, from the well-rounded to the most full-bodied. For wine lovers, make the most of your stay in the Médoc to stock up on a few good bottles and come and share, from chateau to chateau, the passion that drives the many winegrowers in the region.

    Orario di apertura: 24/7


  • 2

    Surf in Lacanau Océan

    The perfect spot for surf enthusiasts

    Surf in Lacanau Océan
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    Lacanau Océan is the place for you if you have always dreamed of learning to surf. Its location is to die for and it has a relaxed atmosphere. Amidst the umbrella pines and fine sand dunes, tame the waves on different beaches according to your level.

    Beginners will start at La Barrière, and as for experienced surfers, they will meet their match with the breakers of the Lion or the Plage Super Sud, the wildest corners of the resort. Between them, the Écureuil and Alexandre beaches will also look after you. Take advantage of the advice of experienced instructors by enrolling in one of the many schools, all of which offer weekly or even half-day courses.

    Posizione: Avenue de l'Europe, 33680 Lacanau, France

    Orario di apertura: 24/7

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 56 03 21 01

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  • 3

    Les Landes

    The green lung of the Médoc

    Les Landes
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    Les Landes, where the sea meets the forest, offers a unique landscape where the maritime pine is king. Sandy paths and cycle tracks run beneath your feet for refreshing strolls to the sound of the nearby waves and the song of the cranes. Jump on your bike early in the morning and breathe in the pure air with its delicious vegetal notes.

    Admire the changing colours of its flora throughout the seasons or simply enjoy this break in the midst of nature so you and the elements can be fully present. Its flat landscape makes the Landes the ideal hiking area for families with young children, who will marvel as much as you do at this enchanting place.

    Orario di apertura: 24/7


  • 4

    Vertheuil Abbey

    A religious building surrounded by English-style gardens

    Vertheuil Abbey
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    Vertheuil Abbey (L’abbaye de Vertheuil) and its abbey church is a must-see in the Médoc, an area with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Founded in the 11th century by William VIII of Aquitaine, the first construction was home to a community of Augustinian monks. It had to be rebuilt following several destructive episodes, particularly during the Hundred Years War.

    Today, you can discover exhibitions and other artistic events during the summer months. The adjoining abbey-church is a sumptuous example of Romanesque architecture, with its octagonal bell tower, ambulatory and magnificent sculptures integrated into the décor. The finely detailed columns are particularly worth lingering for.

    Posizione: 2 Place Saint-Pierre, 33180 Vertheuil, France

    Orario di apertura: Tuesday–Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 56 73 30 10

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    Foto di PA (CC BY-SA 4.0) modificata

  • 5

    Cordouan lighthouse

    A breathtaking view of the Gironde

    Cordouan lighthouse
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    Cordouan lighthouse (Le phare de Cordouan) is an outstanding example of a lighthhouse, an integral part of the maritime landscape in the Médoc. Listed as a historical monument, it stands off the coast of the communes of Verdon-sur-Mer and Royan and can be reached by boat, so you will have to plan your visit according to the tides. At the top of its 311 steps, you can enjoy a 360° view, as beautiful as it is evocative of the past.

    If you come across one of the guards, ask them a few questions and you'll leave with some fascinating anecdotes. And if, at the end of your expedition, you still want more, why not take a tour of the region's  lighthouses? The lighthouses of Richard and Grave are also worth a detour.

    Posizione: 33123 Le Verdon-sur-Mer, France

    Orario di apertura: Opening hours vary according to the season

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 57 42 28 76

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  • 6

    Sunset on the beach at Carcans

    A swirl of shimmering colours

    Sunset on the beach at Carcans
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    We may have seen dozens of sunsets in our lives, but some of them remain engraved in our memory forever. The Médoc Atlantic coast offers wonderful sunsets to add to your repertoire. While all the beaches are perfect for a romantic evening in front of the fiery sky, we particularly recommend the beach at Carcans, with its authentic atmosphere and easy access thanks to its car and bicycle parking.

    So bring some glasses and a good bottle of wine, get drunk on the fresh sea air and sea spray and enjoy the show. Behind the dunes are picnic tables under the pine trees, so you could even plan a small candlelit dinner.

    Posizione: 33121 Carcans, France

    Orario di apertura: 24/7

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  • 7

    Lake Hourtin

    The largest freshwater lake in France

    Lake Hourtin
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    Lake Hourtin (Lac d’Hourtin) is a place of relaxation and fun of the best kind, exemplifying that the Atlantic coast is not the only place for water sports. If you're afraid of the waves or fear getting a mouthful of salt water, or just want a change, this freshwater lake will be your new favourite spot for your family afternoons.

    The water temperature will be warmer than the ocean, so you can swim without shivering and practice kitesurfing, sailing a catamaran or paddle boarding. When you get hungry, head to Hourtin Port (le port d’Hourtin) and its pleasant family-friendly restaurants, and then enjoy a digestive walk along the water.

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  • 8

    The Gironde estuary

    Rejuvenation at the meeting-point of two rivers

    The Gironde estuary
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    The Gironde estuary is an enchanting place where any concept of time becomes obsolete. Here, walks take you through landscapes as varied as they are astonishing, with the combined waters of the Dordogne and the Garonne as a common thread. Inland, you will go from lighthouse to small authentic fishing port, from vineyards to dunes and marshes.

    But you can also choose to sail up the estuary or take a boat trip that will take you around three islands. "Carrelets", typical set-ups consisting of a fishing net connected to a cabin on stilts, punctuate the scenery for the pleasure of photographers, while storks and grey herons will not fail to greet you.

    Orario di apertura: 24/7

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  • 9

    The villas of Soulac

    The town of 500 villas

    The villas of Soulac
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    Soulac is a delicious taste of the past. Located on the seafront, the town is an important pilgrimage centre and a stopover on the route to Santiago de Compostela. But it is the picturesque villas with their old-fashioned charm that make it so attractive.

    Stroll along its pedestrianised street and its indoor market, treat yourself to a home-made ice cream at Judici's, stroll along the seafront and discover, at your leisure or following the signposted route, the pastel tones of the facades dating from the beginning of the 20th century. Accessible to all, the route is easy and comprehensive and offers a beautiful, yet nostalgic, glimpse of the history of the town.

    Posizione: 68 Rue de la Plage, 33780 Soulac-sur-Mer, France

    Orario di apertura: 24/7

    Telefono: +33 (0)5 56 09 86 61

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  • 10

    The Vendays-Montalivet market

    A place to share and enjoy

    The Vendays-Montalivet market
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    The Vendays-Montalivet (Le marché de Vendays-Montalivet) market proves that there's nothing like a little trip to the market to discover local specialities and mingle with the locals. A must in the region, it boasts an ideal setting on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and hosts some 200 stalls.

    In addition to seasonal fruit and vegetables, you can stock up on fresh meat and fish or Médoc wines, get an idea of the local crafts or choose souvenirs to gift to your loved ones or jealously keep for yourself. Tasting is an integral part of the experience including oysters, prawns and cold cuts. Enjoy yourself while chatting with the shopkeepers and locals.

    Posizione: Avenue de l'Océan, 33930 Vendays-Montalivet, France

    Orario di apertura: Daily from 6 am to 2 pm

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